NEW DELHI, November 15: The upcoming Winter session of Parliament is anticipated to commence in the first week of December, with the government reportedly prioritising the introduction of a constitutional amendment bill for women’s reservation. This legislative push comes amidst a politically charged atmosphere surrounding the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls.
Information was available with The Chenab Times that the government intends to advance the bill, which aims to increase the Lok Sabha’s strength through delimitation and establish 33 percent reservation for women in Parliament and state legislatures, potentially ahead of the 2029 general elections. Sources indicate that the first week of December has emerged as the probable timeframe for the session, with discussions on specific dates held at senior government levels.
The passage of this significant legislation, however, is expected to present a numerical challenge. The Constitution amendment bill requires a two-thirds majority in the Lok Sabha, translating to approximately 361 votes in the current 543-member House. With three vacancies, the effective strength stands at 540 members. The ruling National Democratic Alliance (NDA) comprises 320 members, necessitating the support of opposition parties to meet the required threshold.
Beyond the numbers, opposition parties are expected to raise their concerns regarding the SIR process in Parliament, potentially leading to a contentious session. Demands for the resignation of the Chief Election Commissioner have also intensified. A ruling alliance Member of Parliament noted that the conduct of a debate and voting on a constitutional amendment bill would be contingent upon the orderly functioning of the House.
Despite these challenges, a senior government functionary expressed confidence that the bill would secure passage with a comfortable margin, estimated between 15 to 18 votes. The government’s decision to keep the Monsoon session open without formally proroguing it has further fueled speculation about the timing and format of the next parliamentary sitting. The Monsoon session, adjourned sine die on August 13, has remained unprorogued for an extended period, creating the possibility of an immediate or special sitting to address constitutional amendments.
The government is reportedly considering a proposal to increase Lok Sabha seats by 50 percent across all states. This approach is aimed at addressing potential concerns, particularly from southern states, regarding the implications of delimitation. The proposed framework is also understood to maintain the existing inter-state distribution of seats based on the 1971 Census, although no final decision has been confirmed. The proposed legislation had previously failed to garner the necessary support during a special parliamentary sitting on April 17, making its fate in the upcoming winter session a critical test for the administration.
The Constitution does not stipulate a specific timeframe for proroguing a parliamentary house after it has been adjourned sine die.
The Chenab Times News Desk
